By Mercy Akuba
The Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Neda Imasuen, has formally declared his intention to seek re-election, stressing that attaining ranking status in the Senate is crucial to attracting greater development to the district.
Imasuen made this known during the official declaration of his re-election bid with leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo South, held at the residence of former Deputy Governor, Pius Odubu, in Benin City. He appealed to party leaders to grant him the ticket to fly the party’s flag, urging them to set aside sentiments and prioritize the overall benefit of constituents.
The lawmaker emphasized that his re-election would position Edo South to benefit more from the legislative process, noting that ranking senators enjoy greater influence in national decision-making and resource allocation.
Addressing concerns about visibility of his achievements, Imasuen dismissed claims that his performance has not been adequately publicized, stating that his focus has been on impactful, people-oriented projects rather than media publicity.
“I do not believe in spending ₦100 million to publicize a ₦20 million project. My priority has been delivering verifiable results, including securing federal employment opportunities for 33 indigenes of Edo South,” he said.
Highlighting his scorecard, the senator listed achievements across education, healthcare, infrastructure, empowerment, and legislative service.
These include scholarship schemes, ICT and vocational training programmes for youths and women, agricultural initiatives, and community-based healthcare interventions such as medical outreaches and maternal support services.
He also cited road construction projects in Ovia North-East and Orhionmwon Local Government Areas, as well as the installation of solar-powered streetlights in over 50 communities.
Additionally, he noted the distribution of empowerment tools and facilitation of federal job placements for constituents.
On the legislative front, Imasuen pointed to his sponsorship of key bills, including the proposed Federal College of Education, Abudu.
He also referenced his role as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, Code of Conduct and Public Petitions, where over 44 public petitions have been addressed.
Reaffirming his commitment to people-centred representation, the senator pledged to intensify efforts in rural electrification, potable water supply, and economic empowerment if re-elected.
He further stressed the importance of experience in governance, stating that “there is no room for learners,” and urging party leaders to support his bid to attain ranking status in the Senate.
In his remarks, former Deputy Governor, Pius Odubu, called on party members to avoid divisions and support whoever emerges as the party’s candidate.
Mr. Osakue, former Director-General of Godwin Obaseki’s 2016 campaign, emphasized the need for unity within the party, while Orobosa Omo-Ojo, former Commissioner for Transportation, described Imasuen as a unifier and urged leaders to grant him the party ticket.
Speaking with journalists after the event, Imasuen reiterated his appeal for support, maintaining that his legislative experience places him in a strong position to deliver more dividends of democracy to Edo South.
The declaration ceremony was attended by prominent APC leaders, members of the Edo State House of Assembly, former Edo South Senator Matthew Urhoghide, former Oredo Local Government Chairman Osaro Obazee, and other stakeholders from across the senatorial district.